The Olympia Diner, a beloved fixture on the Berlin Turnpike in Newington for 70 years, is now up for sale. The family that has owned and operated the diner since 1974 has made the difficult decision to put it on the market. Located at the intersection of the Berlin Turnpike and Pane Road, the diner and the one acre of land it sits on are being offered for sale or ground lease by Berkshire Hathaway New England Properties on behalf of owner Efrosini Gavarilis.
### A Brief History of the Olympia Diner
The shiny aluminum-sided building that houses the Olympia Diner originally opened in Massachusetts before being moved to Newington in 1954. Over the years, the diner has only had three owners, with the Gavarilis family being the most recent. Efrosini Gavarilis and her late husband Emmanuel Gavarilis purchased the diner in 1974 after Emmanuel had worked there for nearly a decade. Emmanuel, who immigrated to the United States from Greece in 1966, passed away in July 2001. The diner has been a staple in the community, serving up delicious meals and creating memories for generations of customers.
### Reasons for the Sale
While Efrosini Gavarilis was not available for comment on the sale of the diner, the broker handling the listing, Helene Cavalieri, stated that she is not authorized to speak on the family’s behalf regarding their decision to sell the business. The sale of the Olympia comes at a time when Newington and neighboring Berlin are experiencing significant development activity. The land on which the diner sits has the potential for various uses, including general retail, office or medical buildings, auto repair, and of course, restaurants. Newington Mayor Jon Trister expressed his sadness over the sale, calling it “the end of an era.” He fondly recalled his many enjoyable breakfasts at the Olympia and expressed hope that the new owners would pay homage to the diner’s legacy.
### Impact on the Community
The impending sale of the Olympia Diner has left many in the community feeling nostalgic and saddened by the potential loss of a cherished landmark. Mayor Trister’s sentiments are shared by many who have frequented the diner over the years, enjoying its classic diner fare and warm atmosphere. The Olympia holds a special place in the hearts of locals, serving as a gathering spot for friends and family to share meals and create lasting memories.
As news of the diner’s sale spreads, many are reflecting on the role it has played in the community and the impact it has had on their lives. From late-night meals after a night out to family breakfasts on weekends, the Olympia has been a constant presence for many residents. Its closure marks the end of an era and leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.
### Looking to the Future
While the sale of the Olympia Diner may signal the end of an era, it also presents an opportunity for new beginnings. As the property changes hands, there is hope that the new owners will preserve the spirit of the diner and honor its legacy. Whether the diner remains as is or undergoes a transformation, it will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who have enjoyed its hospitality over the years.
In conclusion, the Olympia Diner’s upcoming sale marks a significant moment in the history of the Berlin Turnpike and Newington. As the community prepares to say goodbye to a beloved institution, there is a sense of gratitude for the memories made and the connections forged within its walls. While the future may be uncertain, the legacy of the Olympia Diner will live on in the hearts of those who have been touched by its warmth and hospitality.
